Levels at PSCA

All of our Adult and Youth aerial classes at PSCA use our level system.

Since aerial arts are not gymnastics, and since each apparatus is different, it can sometimes be really hard to know what level is right for you. Even within an individual class, fitness, coordination and experience can make it hard to tell if you’re in the appropriate class.

The staff at PSCA staff is working together to make our level system simpler and easier to understand; if you’ve taken classes with us before, go ahead and sign up for whatever level you’re currently in. As we evolve within the new system we’ll get more specific together to make sure that everyone is in the class that’s most appropriate for them!

For Youth classes, leveling only refers to aerial level, not acrobatic level. Everyone will be learning acrobatics at their own pace, and it’s easier to break down tumbling levels within a class. So sign up for classes based on your aerial level not your acrobatic experience.

Here are some general guidelines for those of you with questions.

Level 1

Anyone can take level 1 classes! They’re open to all levels, and will have lots of fun material that challenges you physically while getting you used to being upside down and in the air. The only apparatuses in Level 1 are Trapeze and Sling; Level 1 students are still getting comfortable leaving the ground and building grip strength.

Level 2

Level 2 classes are best for people with some experience, either in circus or in other athletics. The pace is a bit faster than level 1, and students are expected to be able to hold their body weight in the air and keep themselves safe with less supervision. This is the level where we start climbing and doing more conditioning, in order to get you in shape for Level 3. Level 2 classes are in Trapeze, Sling and Fabric.

Level 3

This is the intermediate level, where we introduce Rope and Lyra along with Trapeze and Fabric. Students in Level 3 classes should have experience and strength, be able to invert in the air consistently and stay in the air for longer sequences of tricks. You should be comfortable climbing to the top of the space and working independently on new skills without direct supervision. If you’re not sure if you’re in Level 2 or 3, use your own judgement to place yourself! The worst that will happen is that your teacher will recommend a different class.

Levels 4 & 5

Levels 4 & 5 are for the more serious and experienced student. These classes will focus on higher level skills that require practice, dedication, physical maintenance and higher levels of fitness. The focus of these classes will be building proper form and body mechanics in order to execute higher level material safely and consistently. At this time, Levels 4 & 5 are combined in all classes; as these classes grow larger, they’ll start to be offered separately.

Location

We are located at 5900A Greene st, Philadelphia PA 19107.

There is a parking lot on site, and the school is easily accessed through public transit. Just click the map below!

Get in touch

Use the form below to zip us an email, or just give us a call at 215-849-1991.

Did you know?

The Philadelphia School of Circus Arts is one of the first circus schools in the country to be recognized by the Safety Program of the American Circus Educators Association! We were recognized in 2014 by going through a safety consultation process.